Art Gallery of NSW new Sydney Modern Opens

Just in time for Summer the new Sydney Modern extension to the Art Gallery of NSW officially opens on the 3rd of December 2022. 
An art gallery specially designed to display large, visually diverse and yes, thoroughly modern artworks. Although the architects were Japanese (Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa) the building also feels entirely Australian, connecting the location to the Domain, the city the harbour and the original building.  With 900 pieces from artists all around the world, the displays bring the globe to Sydney. 

There are five galleries with plenty of connecting artworks spread over 4 levels the lowest level being one of the biggest draw cards.  The old Oil Tank Gallery (re-purposed WWII fuel bunker).  For the opening and the next 8 months, Argentinian artist Adrian Villar Rojas has created a spooky sculpture and light show within the unique subterranean space. As you descend into the area, the smell of the tanks' industrial past and its dark environment makes you truly appreciate what a fine choice this artist was for the space.   After seeing this exhibit you can't help but be excited about what might come next!

Every room has interesting and emotive offerings from the indigenous art of the Yiribana Gallery on the top floor to the Dream Home - Stories of Art and Shelter on the third floor. 

But as you descend the escalators to the ground floor the giant screen with Lisa Reihana's 'Groundloop' was my favourite of the preview day.  And that's what's great about this new destination, everyone will have a different favourite.

The new gallery is a must for everyone's list that's holidaying in Sydney this summer, kids will love it and you don't need more than 2 hours (although you might find it hard to leave).  With restaurants and bars onsite you can spend the whole day in this glorious space if you are so inclined.   

Parking in the Domain Car Park makes it very easy to visit or public transport via St James Railway St. or the 441 bus from the QVB in the city.   

Shelley Richardson

Shelley has been working in the travel industry for over 30 years, in aviation, for tour operators and since 2016 for DriveNow. Having travelled extensively worldwide, alone, as a couple and with her family, Shelley has experience to share about how to make the most of your holiday, especially road-trips to amazing destinations.

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